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What if I notice an officially closed record in the 1939 Register that I believe should be open?

Answer:

Individuals records remain closed for 100 years from their date of birth (100 year rule). Records remain closed for people born less than 100 years ago until proof of death is verified. You can read more about this here.

You can request that an officially closed record is opened through our online Evidence of Death form. Current subscribers to Findmypast, have the option available for free.

Once you have located the record and are viewing the transcript, you will see the option 'Open a closed record'. Clicking this will take you to the online form where you can enter and complete all the relevant information. You will need to provide evidence that the individual has passed away and we can only accept a copy of an official death certificate (issued by the General Register Ofice or overseas equivalent) so please ensure you have this document before proceeding. If we do not receive this valid proof of death, we will be unable to proceed with a search.

If the death occurred abroad, then you will be required to scan and send a copy of the death certificate provided by the country.

This will need to be the equivalent of a GRO certificate in England & Wales therefore must be the fully certified information. A scanned copy is acceptable (files supported: .jpg, .png, .giff) as opposed to the original and this must contain all required information.